Sixth formers at The Emmbrook School have been praised for their professionalism and maturity and for giving Rotarians “faith in our future generation”.

Members of Easthampstead Rotary Club were ‘caught up in the emotions and challenges’ as they listened to a presentation by the pupils about New Futures, a project set up 10 years ago to offer an outdoor adventure holiday in Wales for teenagers with learning disabilities.

Six pupils from the Wokingham secondary school, together with sixth formers from Charters School in Sunningdale and Maiden Erlegh in Earley, supported 18 pupils with special needs from Addington School in Woodley during their five-day expedition in March.

The Emmbrook pupils and teacher Sam Martin were guests at the Rotary’s meeting on Monday, October 10, to thank the Rotarians for the £500 donation towards the cost of the New Futures project.

A presentation by Mrs Martin was followed by a talk by each of the six pupils, who acted as teachers, carers and friends to the Addington youngsters.

John Moore, from the Rotary club, said: “Each individual gave a personal rendition of what they got out of it. Our members were caught up in the emotions and challenges of the school teams’ activities and successes and were most impressed by the professionalism, maturity and enthusiasm of the teams.

“The students said the trip was a life changing experience and many of the Addington parents did not believe they would ever have their children doing these activities.”

Easthampstead Club president Dennis Eyrie thanked the pupils and said: “Your efforts are an inspiration and give us faith in our future generation – you are to be congratulated.”

William Daniell, an Addington teacher, said: “We as adults only go as back-up. It was fantastic and all the sixth formers were brilliant.”